Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello seeks transfer of N80.2 billion fraud case from Abuja to Kogi State. EFCC objects, calling it a delay tactic. Bello's whereabouts are unknown despite an arrest warrant.
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has petitioned the Federal High Court in Abuja to transfer his ongoing criminal case to Kogi State. Bello's legal representative, Adeola Adedipe, argued that since the alleged offenses occurred in Kogi, it would be appropriate for the case to be tried there.
Adedipe informed the court of a letter sent to Chief Judge John Tsoho requesting the case's transfer. The Chief Judge's office has reportedly asked the prosecution team to respond to this request.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is seeking to arraign Bello on 19 counts related to alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of N80.2 billion. The commission had previously obtained an arrest warrant for Bello, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
EFCC counsel Kemi Pinhero urged the court to compel the defense to explain Bello's absence, despite a previous undertaking to ensure his presence for arraignment. Pinhero dismissed the transfer request as a delaying tactic.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the high-profile case, raising questions about jurisdiction and the former governor's legal strategy.
